Free trials on Google Play subscription content now available

The Google Play tree is growing bigger by the day, so it’s only apt that more features are introduced that can benefit both developers and users. After the introduction of in-app subscription back in May, which works for apps, magazines and other creative content, Google is taking things a step further by allowing developers to offer free trials for in-app subscription content.

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The new feature lets developers give subscribers free content for 7 days or more, depending on their discretion. The free trial period can easily be changed by the developers without making users re-download the app.

Users need to keep a few things in mind: you can get the trial only once you’ve entered your complete billing information, as if you’re making a purchase. Afraid that you will be billed for the test ride? As per Google’s explanation, you’ll see that Google Play will record an initial transaction charge of $0.00.

You will not be billed if you decide to cancel at any time during the trial. But if you forgot to cancel before the trial period ends, you will be automatically charged for the subscription service.

Hopefully developers and content providers will take advantage of the new feature and start implementing free trials so that customers get a taste of the content before purchasing. This way we can avoid the whole “judge the book or app by its cover” scenario.

What do you think of the free trial option for subscription content on Google Play?